James Carville, Mary Matalin Explain Leaving CNN (VIDEO)

James Carville and Mary Matalin spoke out about their split with CNN on Thursday's "CBS This Morning."

They are two of the network's most prominent pundits. It was announced on Tuesday that they, along with contributors Erick Erickson, Bill Bennett and Maria Cardona, are leaving CNN.

When asked what prompted the exit on Thursday, Carville said, "What CNN said was they want contributors to be there on set."

"Which makes sense," Matalin added.

"It makes total sense," Carville agreed. "But it's a strategy we can't fulfill." The couple currently lives in New Orleans and has a television set in their home for live appearances.

Their departures are part of a major shake-up now taking place at CNN, with Jeff Zucker in control. Other changes include a morning show with Chris Cuomo, an afternoon show with Jake Tapper, a new sports show and non-news shows hosted by Anthony Bourdain and Morgan Spurlock.